Periaural Eczemaaccording to TCM
Symptom family: Eczema, Dermatitis and Itchy Conditions of the Skin
Parent symptom: Eczema
What is Periaural Eczema?
Periaural eczema, often interchangeable with perioral dermatitis, is a type of eczema that affects the skin surrounding the ears. This condition is characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin, often accompanied by a burning sensation. It can vary in severity and may present as small, red, and sometimes scaly or crusty patches.
Unlike some other forms of eczema, periaural eczema is specific to the area around the ears, making it a unique subset of dermatological conditions. This condition can be persistent and may require targeted treatment to alleviate symptoms.
How does TCM view Periaural Eczema?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), periaural eczema is viewed through a lens of holistic imbalance. TCM practitioners believe that skin conditions like eczema stem from internal disharmonies within the body's organ systems, particularly those involving the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney.
These imbalances might be due to factors like emotional stress, dietary irregularities, or environmental triggers. In contrast to Western medicine's topical and symptom-focused approach, TCM aims to rectify the underlying imbalances, thereby treating the root cause of the eczema.
Causes of Periaural Eczema According to TCM
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) delves into the deeper, underlying causes of periaural eczema, often attributing it to internal disharmonies. One pivotal pattern in TCM is the imbalance of Yin and Yang within the body, particularly in the context of the Lesser Yang stage according to the 6 Stage Theory, which can manifest as skin issues like eczema. This disharmony is frequently linked to the Liver and Gallbladder channels. Factors contributing to this imbalance may include emotional stress, environmental conditions, or dietary influences.
Another common pattern in TCM associated with periaural eczema involves the stagnation of Qi, particularly the Liver Qi. This stagnation can lead to an accumulation of Heat and Dampness in the body, causing skin inflammation and discomfort around the ears.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Periaural Eczema
In addressing periaural eczema, TCM emphasizes restoring balance and harmony within the body. For conditions stemming from lesser Yang disorder and imbalances involving Phlegm-Fluids in the Stomach and Small intestine, the formula Xiao Chai Hu Tang is often prescribed. This formula, which includes Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu) as a key ingredient, is known for its bitter and cool properties.
It plays a crucial role in harmonizing the lesser Yang stage and addressing issues of Half Exterior Half Interior patterns. By targeting these specific TCM patterns, Xiao Chai Hu Tang aids in alleviating the symptoms of periaural eczema, ensuring a holistic treatment approach that goes beyond merely addressing the superficial symptoms.
See more details below about Xiao Chai Hu Tang, a herbal formula used to address periaural eczema.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that harmonize lesser yang-warp disorders
Formulas that harmonize lesser Yang-warp disorders
Periaural eczema can be treated by these formulas in cases of imbalances in the lesser Yang (Shao Yang) phase, which often involve alternating hot and cold sensations.
One such formula is Xiao Chai Hu Tang, with bupleurum root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Periaural Eczema
See more details below about Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu), a herb used to address periaural eczema.
- By Herb Category
- Cool/Acrid herbs that release the exterior
Cool/Acrid herbs that release the Exterior
Periaural eczema can be treated by these herbs when the body needs to harmonize with external environmental changes, particularly when there's a need to expel pathogenic factors like wind or cold without overly cooling the body.
One such herb is Bupleurum Roots (Chai Hu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for periaural eczema, like Xiao Chai Hu Tang.